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William Alexander Davidson, Jr.
William Davidson, Jr. Obituary
William Alexander Davidson, Jr. passed away at his home in Valencia, CA on Thursday, December 20, 2012. Born in Quincy, MA to Irene and William A. Davidson, Sr., both deceased, Bill attended Braintree High School and received a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Northeastern University in 1969. Upon graduation, he received his commission as an ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate, entering the regular Army as an infantry officer.
Bill was an Airborne Ranger and Vietnam veteran, having served as combat advisor to the 44th Vietnamese Ranger Battalion from 1970-71. After returning home he transferred to the Military Police Corps and was stationed at Fort Carson until 1975. He continued his career for many years as a reservist, ultimately retiring as a Lieutenant Colonel. His military decorations included the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm, and Combat Infantry Badge. Bill was especially proud of his Army days and often reminded friends and family, "Rangers Lead the Way!"
He began a 29-year career with the LAPD in 1976 that included assignments in Wilshire Division, Metro Division B Platoon, 77th Street Division, and Hollywood Division. Known equally for his Boston accent and wry humor, Bill was also respected as a leader with extensive field knowledge and an even keel. He retired as a Sergeant in 2005.
He was preceded in death by a son, Matthew. He is survived by sisters Nancy Burge and Gail Doyle; sons Jeremy, Jeffrey, Michael, and Daniel; grandchildren Grace and Gavin.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory are welcome at the Hollywood Police Activities League, a volunteer organization providing educational and athletic activities for at-risk youth: www.hollywoodpal.org.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for William Davidson, Jr.
January 21, 2013
I was a boot at Hollywood Division in the 80's when Sgt Davidson was there. I always remembered he treated me with dignity and respect. Bill was a good man,Be with Christ. Officer Brad Baird LAPD
Larry Minton # 20974
January 15, 2013
Although it was over thirty years ago that I worked uniformed patrol with Bill in Wilshire, my memories are of his being a fine, fun man to be around as we all crushed crime. A good man and good times. Thought highly of you Bill.
Patrick Findley
January 4, 2013
When I was the Captain at Hollywood Division, I had the opportunity to work with Bill. As everyone else says, he was quite the funny guy. He always gave his best at the job and that was truly appreciated by me and the rest of the staff. He was a good man and will be missed by the LAPD family.
Steve and Jackie Ellis
January 3, 2013
"Saagent Billy Boy" Davidson; a great friend. I will never forget the many times he reminded us of his army stories and his 29 years on the LAPD, a "saagent" at Hollywood Division. He must have told us 50 times that he got to meet President John F. Kennedy and see little John John wearing a little blue hat and blue coat and "shots." Our friends at La Cocnia, Armando and Ray, treated Bill as a valued friend and customer. They always took time to visit with Bill and listen to his repeated stories like they heard them for the first time. We will miss Bill and his stories each time we pass his home.
Kenny Bracken
January 3, 2013
Bill, Was one of a kind, we had some great times in 77th in the 80's and and Hollywood in the 90's. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing. My sympathy to the Davidson Family.
Jim Mateer
January 3, 2013
I worked for Bill in 1986 and with him, from 1995 to 2001 at Hollywood Division. He was always one of the guys I enjoyed being around. I was also always in awe of his Viet Nam stories and experiences. When I retired, he was one of the guys I missed seeing everyday.
Jim Tomer
January 3, 2013
Fly high my friend. You always made me smile. You will be missed.JIM
Caren Lake
January 3, 2013
RIP
January 3, 2013
To the Doyle family: So sorry for the sudden loss of your dear family member. We knew Bill way back in the days before Milton and Nancy were married. He was much loved by his parents and sisters. And he will be missed. Peace to all of you as you mourn his passing. From the Goodspeed family.
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